When people gamble they place a bet on something that has an unknown chance of occurring. It can be on a sporting event, or a lottery draw or scratchcard, for example. They usually do this with money they have earned through their work, or that they have saved up, and they are hoping to win a prize, often much larger than the amount they’ve invested. They may also try to recoup losses through more gambling.
Gambling has many harmful consequences, including addiction and financial distress. It can lead to depression, stress and suicidal ideation. It can also result in strained relationships, loss of employment and homelessness. Increasingly, gambling is available online and on mobile phones, making it even easier to access, 24 hours a day.
A person who suffers from a gambling disorder is not always aware they have a problem and may be reluctant to admit it. They might try to hide their gambling habits from their family and friends or lie about how much they’re spending, believing that others won’t understand or be able to help them. They may also feel compelled to gamble to relieve unpleasant feelings or boredom, or to try to recover money they have lost.
It is important for doctors to recognise the impact of gambling behaviours in their patients, as well as other addictive disorders like substance misuse and eating disorders. There is a growing role for the evaluation of gambling behavior in primary care settings and this includes screening for pathological gambling.